Amid the hype of the World Chess Championship in Singapore, is it a good idea to start learning chess? Hsu Li Yang of the Singapore Chess Federation has an admittedly biased perspective.
Spectators watch the match between China’s Ding Liren against his challenger, Gukesh Dommaraju of India, at the FIDE World Chess Championship Singapore 2024, at Equarius Hotel, Singapore, on Nov 26, 2024. in Singapore, still ongoing at the time of writing, is livestreamed to millions. The showdown between world champion Ding Liren and 18-year-old challenger Gukesh Dommaraju receives global media coverage.
The “Fan Zone”, a room dedicated for fans to mingle, play chess and watch the game live on TV, at the FIDE World Chess Championship Singapore 2024 at Equarius Hotel, Singapore, on Nov 26, 2024. At higher levels of competition, preparation involves knowing and adapting to one’s opponents, taking into account their style of play, strengths and weaknesses, and their possible preparation against oneself. These skills should transcend the chessboard.However, a sense of healthy scepticism with regards to these seemingly logical beliefs is important. Just as in chess, one should assess positions objectively and analyse even “obvious” moves and captures.
In adults, playing chess is associated with better cognitive health, reducing the risk of dementia as well as slowing cognitive decline. However, most of the published research studies are small and not designed to demonstrate a causal relationship.Where chess can benefit players is in the social platform it provides for children and adults from diverse backgrounds to connect. The sport transcends age, ethnicity, language and cultural barriers, creating a meritocratic and inclusive environment.
These emotional and social development benefits are not unique to chess, of course, but present in many other sports and interactive games.The risk of children and youth becoming overly competitive or experiencing undue pressure is always present, especially if parents or coaches emphasise winning too strongly. Excessive focus and time spent on chess can also lead to reduced physical activity, a narrower range of interests, and in some cases, poorer academic performance.
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